Jun 10, 2025
Secure Browsing with Proxy4u: Why It Outshines Decoder (Formerly Smart Proxy)
In today’s digital landscape, secure browsing is not just a luxury but a necessity. When it comes to choosing the right proxy provider, transparency, affordability, and reliability are paramount. After extensive research and comparisons, I’ve found that Proxy4u stands head and shoulders above Decoder (formerly Smart Proxy), especially when it comes to honest pricing and user trust.
If you’re on the hunt for a proxy provider that truly values your security and wallet, keep reading. I’ll walk you through why Proxy4u offers the best solution for secure browsing without hidden fees or confusing rebranding tricks. You can also visit Proxy4u directly to explore their offerings: Proxy4u Official Website.

Understanding the Proxy Landscape: Proxy4u vs Decoder
Proxies are essential tools for anyone serious about secure browsing, whether you're a traveler, analyst, seller, or brand. They help mask your IP address, provide anonymity, and allow access to geo-restricted content. But not all proxy providers play fair with pricing and transparency.
One major player in this space was Smart Proxy, a well-known provider that recently rebranded to Decoder. Such rebranding often raises eyebrows, and in this case, it should. Despite the name change, the same questionable tactics remain, particularly when it comes to pricing and user data collection.
On the other hand, Proxy4u has maintained consistent branding and a reputation for honesty since its inception. This stability alone builds trust, but their transparent pricing and pay-as-you-go model truly make them stand out.
Why the Rebranding of Smart Proxy to Decoder is a Red Flag
Rebranding can be a legitimate business strategy, but it can also be used to mask underlying issues. In Decoder's case, the rebrand does little to change the core problem — misleading pricing and complicated purchase requirements.
For instance, Decoder advertises residential proxies at an eye-catching $1.50 per gigabyte. At first glance, this seems like a bargain. However, the catch is that you must purchase an enormous amount of data upfront before you can even access this rate. This tactic can be misleading and frustrating for users who only need smaller amounts of data.
Breaking Down the Pricing: The Truth Behind the Numbers
Let’s dive deeper into the pricing comparison between Proxy4u and Decoder to uncover the truth.
Decoder’s Hidden Costs
Decoder advertises $1.50 per gigabyte for residential proxies, but once you sign up, you discover that this rate only applies if you buy an exorbitant amount of data upfront. For example, purchasing just 2GB costs $6, which means you're paying $3 per gigabyte — double the advertised rate.
Moreover, the “most popular” 25GB plan is priced at $520 total, which equates to roughly $20.80 per gigabyte, not the $1.50 they claim. Even if you buy a full terabyte (1,000GB), the cost per gigabyte only drops to $3, still twice as much as the advertised rate.
What’s more frustrating is that you cannot purchase smaller amounts like 1GB at the advertised rate. The minimum purchase requirement is high, making this pricing scheme impractical and misleading for users who want flexibility.

Proxy4u’s Transparent and Affordable Pricing
In contrast, Proxy4u offers straightforward pricing with no hidden catches. Residential proxies are priced at $2.50 per gigabyte, and you can purchase as little as 1GB if you want. For example, 2GB costs only $5, which is cheaper than Decoder’s $6 for the same amount.
Proxy4u’s pay-as-you-go model means you’re never locked into large purchases, and the pricing you see is the pricing you pay. No surprise fees, no misleading advertisements — just honest, affordable service.
Even at higher volumes, Proxy4u remains competitive. Buying a terabyte or more keeps the price per gigabyte remarkably low, making it a great option for both small users and enterprises.
For anyone seeking secure browsing without the hassle, Proxy4u offers a refreshing level of honesty and simplicity. You can check out their pricing and plans here: Explore Proxy4u Pricing.
Customer Experience and Trustworthiness
Beyond pricing, trust is a huge factor when choosing a proxy provider. Proxy4u has earned rave reviews across multiple platforms like Trustpilot, Reviews.io, and Product Hunt. Customers praise their transparent service, reliable uptime, and excellent customer support.
On the other hand, Decoder’s rebranding and pricing tactics have left many users skeptical. Changing your company’s identity while keeping the same questionable strategies is not a recipe for building trust.
Who Uses Proxy4u?
- Travelers: Proxy4u helps travelers access geo-blocked content securely while abroad.
- Sellers: E-commerce sellers utilize Proxy4u to monitor competitor pricing and market trends without exposure.
- Analysts: Data analysts rely on Proxy4u’s proxies to gather unbiased data from different regions.
- Brands: Businesses use Proxy4u to protect their digital assets and conduct market research safely.
This diversity of users speaks volumes about Proxy4u’s versatility and trustworthiness.
Why Secure Browsing Demands Transparency
Secure browsing means more than just encrypting your web traffic; it means trusting the tools you use to protect your privacy. Proxy4u understands this, which is why they never pull the wool over their customers’ eyes.
When a proxy provider misleads users with false pricing or forces large upfront purchases, it compromises trust and the very security it claims to offer. Proxy4u’s ethos is clear: be honest, be straightforward, and provide excellent service.
Choosing Proxy4u means choosing peace of mind. You know exactly what you’re paying for, and you can scale your usage as needed without worrying about hidden clauses or surprises.
Final Thoughts: Make the Smart Choice for Secure Browsing
After comparing Proxy4u and Decoder, the choice is clear. Proxy4u offers:
- Transparent Pricing: Real prices with no hidden fees or confusing requirements.
- Flexibility: Pay-as-you-go options that suit any budget or project size.
- Trust and Reputation: Consistent branding backed by excellent user reviews.
- Reliable Service: Proxies that work worldwide for travelers, sellers, analysts, and brands.
If you value your digital security and want honest service, Proxy4u is the provider to trust. Don’t be fooled by flashy ads or rebrands that hide the true cost of proxies. Instead, opt for a provider that puts your security first and offers you the freedom to browse safely and affordably.
Ready to experience truly secure browsing? Visit Proxy4u today and start protecting your online presence with confidence.

Secure your browsing experience with Proxy4u — honesty, transparency, and affordability all in one place.